> Rockwell Collins’ technology for the KC-46A one step closer to entering service

Rockwell Collins’ technology for the KC-46A one step closer to entering service

Friday, Mar 10, 2017

Just over a year after Rockwell Collins’ Remote Vision System (RVS) aided in the Boeing KC-46A tanker’s successful first refueling test flight, the U.S. Air Force has awarded Boeing its third low-rate initial production aircraft lot. The order includes 15 KC-46A aircraft as part of an overall plan to replace the Air Force’s tanker fleet. First deliveries of the KC-46A will begin later this year.

Rockwell Collins provides significant content on the KC-46A, including the innovative RVS, which combines 2D and 3D vision technologies in both visible and long-wave infrared spectrums, allowing the boom operator to safely refuel military aircraft in any weather and time of day, including “lights out” operations.

“The cutting-edge technology developed for the RVS defies anything that’s previously been used for airborne refueling,” said Dave Schreck, vice president and general manager, Airborne Solutions for Rockwell Collins. “This technology resulted from the hard work and innovative spirit of dedicated, professional teams from Rockwell Collins, Boeing and the Air Force. It also wasn’t just the RVS. This productive, collaborative environment applies to the numerous systems we’re providing on the KC-46A.”

In addition to the RVS, Rockwell Collins provides the following for the KC-46A tanker:

Integrated display system featuring four 15.1-inch diagonal
liquid crystal displays, built on proven technology from the Boeing 787
program, delivering significantly higher levels of reliability and
safety. Each display provides two independently controlled display
windows, for a total of eight, that accommodate multiple display
functions on a single screen.

A Tactical Situational Awareness System (TSAS) processor built
on a Joint Interoperability Test Command (JITC)-certified system. The
TSAS provides situational awareness to the crew, routing cues to avoid
imminent threats in the area, and awareness of friendly entities.

Signal data concentrator network, a DO-178B and DO-254 certified
system that forms the avionics network on the aircraft. It uses the
ARINC 664 standard for fast translation and sharing of aircraft system
information between components.

Boeing’s KC-46A is a multirole tanker that can refuel all allied and coalition military aircraft compatible with international aerial refueling procedures, as well as having the ability to carry passengers, cargo and patients. Overall, Boeing plans to build 179 KC-46A aircraft for the Air Force.

About Rockwell Collins

Rockwell Collins is a pioneer in the development and deployment of innovative aviation and high-integrity solutions for both commercial and government applications. Our expertise in flight deck avionics, cabin electronics, mission communications, simulation and training, and information management is delivered by a global workforce, and a service and support network that crosses more than 150 countries.